Three-Dimensional Grid Beam for Rigid Construction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing construction sets based on grid beams, such as Meccano and Erector kits, are limited by their two-dimensional nature, leading to deformation and inability to form ideal geometric shapes like rectangles and cubes without diagonal braces, making them unsuitable for professional industrial and laboratory applications.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional grid beam fabricated from solid metal alloy or reinforced plastic using injection molding or CNC machining, with precisely angled faces and holes on all sides, allowing for the formation of ideal rectangles and cubes without the need for diagonal braces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If two-dimensional stamped metal beams are used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but structural rigidity and ability to form ideal geometric shapes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional stamped metal beams to three-dimensional extruded or machined beams with rectangular cross-sections. This dimensional change enables the beams to resist bending in multiple directions and form stable rectangular and cubic geometric structures without deformation, while still allowing for efficient manufacturing through extrusion or CNC machining processes.
2Device complexity
If two-dimensional grid beams are used, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and geometric accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By introducing the third dimension through extruded or machined rectangular beams, the patent achieves precise 90-degree angles and flat surfaces that enable accurate rectangular and cubic constructions. The increased dimensional complexity of the beam cross-section directly enables the manufacturing precision needed for ideal geometric shapes.
3Strength
If angled girders are used, then structural strength is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to stamp and bend process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the stamp-and-bend mechanical forming process with direct extrusion or CNC machining processes. These alternative manufacturing methods inherently produce precise 90-degree angles and flat surfaces without the deformation and angle errors associated with stamping and bending operations, while maintaining the structural strength of angled configurations.
4Manufacturing precision
If extruded grid beams are used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ability to form ideal rectangle corners deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the full three-dimensional capability of extruded or machined beams with rectangular cross-sections to create flat, precise rectangular corners and cubic structures. The extrusion or machining process produces beams with perfectly flat surfaces and accurate 90-degree edges throughout their volume, enabling ideal geometric shapes that cannot be achieved with two-dimensional beams.
Data Source
AI summary
Three-dimensional grid beams are provided. The three-dimensional grid beam as provided offers high construction precision and rigidity, thus allowing the construction set thereof to be used in industrial and laboratory applications. The construction set utilizing such three-dimensional grid beams with connectors for releasably interconnecting the three-dimensional grid beams is also provided.